STARS IN HIS EYES: Manchester United new boy Ander Herrera has revealed Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt were among his heroes growing up [GETTY]

The Spanish midfielder completed a dream move to Old Trafford in June, becoming manager Louis van Gaal's first signing as United boss.

Herrera has impressed during pre-season and made his debut at the Theatre of Dreams on Tuesday night in United's 2-1 victory over Valencia in their final pre-season friendly before Saturday's big kick-off in the Premier League.

And ahead of his league bow against Swansea City on Saturday, Herrera has spoken of the stars he looked up to when he was coming through the ranks at Real Zaragoza.

"I always looked at other players at Real Zaragoza as that's where I played [as a youngster]," the 24-year-old said.

"Gus Poyet was a role model for me, and then the national team players like Xavi and Iniesta but so were the United players like Scholes and Butt.

"They not only played well with the ball, they did great work off the ball too and worked hard to defend when they needed to.

"They were all big role models for me."

HONEST APPROACH: Herrera is delighted with how things have gone under new boss Louis van Gaal [GETTY]

“It's great to have a coach who is always very honest”

Ander Herrera

United enjoyed a hugely successful pre-season, lifting the International Champions Cup whilst on tour in America.

New man Van Gaal has already shown signs of revitalising a United side that spectacularly failed under David Moyes last year.

And despite having worked with the Dutchman for only a short period of time, Herrera admitted he is already a huge fan of his direct approach.

"He is our leader. We are very happy to work with him. He is very honest which is what all the players want," he told the club's official website.

"It's great to have a coach who is always very honest.

"I can play in different positions, but I will play wherever the manager wants me to.

"I don't have a preference because I am a team player and the team is always the most important thing."